Happy Holidays!
Just like you, I just got back from visiting my mom for the holidays. Although you’d never guess her age by looking at her, Mom’s getting up there. (Don’t you dare tell her I said that!)
That’s way I grabbed this important press release for you. (Plus, of course, just like you, I’m taking a little holiday break from writing for a couple of days.)
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Seniors’ Physical And Mental Functioning Enhanced By Exercise
For older Americans, reversal of the brain shrinkage that occurs as people age is just one benefit of greater physical activity, according to research published in the latest issue of The Journal of Gerontology: Medical Sciences (Vol. 61A, No. 11). In a special section devoted to exercising and aging, this edition of the journal features five separate reports on the topic.
Until recently, scientists believed older brains could not grow new neurons. However, a team at the University of Illinois has evidence showing that three hours of brisk walking per day can trigger biochemical changes that increase production of new brain neurons.
Another article shows that a structured exercise program may boost the physical well-being of sedentary seniors who are at risk of losing independent functioning. This particular conclusion was drawn from the recent Lifestyle Interventions and Independence for Elders (LIFE) pilot study.
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The Journal of Gerontology: Medical Sciences is a refereed publication of The Gerontological Society of America, the oldest and largest national multidisciplinary scientific organization devoted to the advancement of gerontological research. Founded in 1945, its membership includes some 5,000+ researchers, educators, practitioners, and other professionals in the field of aging. The Society’s principal missions are to promote research and education in aging and to encourage the dissemination of research results to other scientists, decision makers, and practitioners.
Tags: walking, senior fitness, aging, anti-aging
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Exercise is so important as we get older. My grandmother used to walk a lot from early childhood until very old age. Her only exercise was walking, but even in her eighties she would walk into town still. She lived until 92, and although her mind failed her eventually, she was always incredibly fit for her age, and carried on working as a nanny until her 80’s.
Many people take up tai chi to improve stability and strength, which I also recommend to anyone thinking of taking up a new exercise / hobby to improve physical and mental wellbeing – but walking is possibly the most available and easiest form of exercise. Walk every day and you should like to a healthy old age.